CDPAP Personal Assistants vs. HHAs/PCAs
For seniors or individuals needing home care, welcoming a stranger can feel daunting. The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), a New York Medicaid initiative, offers a solution by letting trusted family members or friends step in as paid caregivers—exclusive to Medicaid recipients.
CDPAP is a New York State Medicaid program that gives individuals the freedom to choose a familiar caregiver—such as a child, sibling, or friend—rather than relying on an agency-assigned aide. Eligibility requires Medicaid coverage and a medical need for personal care, home health care, or private duty nursing, assessed by a physician and a registered nurse. Spouses and designated representatives (for those unable to direct care) cannot serve as caregivers, but other relatives or friends can, provided all criteria are met. The process involves submitting a CDPAP application, a physician’s order, and a nursing assessment to determine authorized care hours.
The key distinction lies in the scope of duties. CDPAP Personal Assistants (PAs) are trained by the care recipient to perform both non-skilled tasks—like meal preparation and daily activity support—and skilled healthcare duties, a versatility not found in HHAs or PCAs. Examples include:
In contrast, HHAs and PCAs are limited to non-medical support, such as housekeeping and personal hygiene, and require formal certification, which CDPAP PAs do not need.
CDPAP stands out by prioritizing trust and flexibility. Having a loved one as a caregiver ensures personalized attention and comfort, unlike agency staff juggling multiple clients. It offers a customizable schedule, preserving independence for those not needing round-the-clock care. Plus, caregivers avoid formal training—learning directly from the recipient—making it a practical, trust-based option. Consumers can even select multiple PAs if needed, tailoring care to their lifestyle after paperwork and assessments are complete.
CDPAP caregivers skip licensing requirements, relying on the recipient’s guidance for training, though health screenings are mandatory. They work as independent contractors through a fiscal intermediary (a licensed agency processing payments), paid hourly based on the care plan’s authorized hours. This program turns unpaid family support into compensated care, a boon for many households. For next steps, explore the transition details or reach out for guidance.
Learn About Transition to PPL 🩺We’re here to assist with your CDPAP questions—don’t share medical info, as we’re not healthcare providers!